A canoe-kayak trip on the Dordogne is already an adventure in itself: paddle in hand, you explore magnificent landscapes while enjoying the tranquility of nature. But did you know that you can enrich this experience by adding other activities? Whether you are a thrill-seeker, peaceful moment or cultural discovery, here are the 5 best activities to combine with a 9km canoe-kayak trip .
1. Visiting the Padirac and Rocamadour
©Charlotte Heurtevent
Why add them?
Unmissable destinations, the Gouffre de Padirac and the village of Rocamadour (classified among the Most Beautiful Villages in France), are just 25 minutes from our bases in Vayrac and St-Sozy. It will be entirely possible for you to combine it with one of our 9km walks. The ideal? The 9km walk from Vayrac to Gluges with return by bus at 2 p.m.
Advice :
- Book your tickets to the Gouffre de Padirac in advance
- Do you want to park for a moment in Rocamadour? There are very advantageous passes for parking
- Visit Rocamadour preferably outside peak hours! You will be able to enjoy the light of a sunrise or sunset
2. An escape game at the Alix farm
Why add it?
The Alix farm brings back Quercy lavender, which has almost disappeared in recent years. The escape game , the Elixir des Alix takes us into an exciting story in the heart of the hamlet of Alix, fun guaranteed!
Advice :
- Book your game in advance directly on the site
- Combine the escape game with a visit to the shop, all products are made on the farm!
- And after? Why not go to La Borie d’Imbert? A farm that can be visited for free and where you can buy rocamadours and farm products
Tip : If the weather conditions are good, lavender flowers at the end of June but it is always pleasant to visit them, even outside the flowering period.
©Carlotte Heurtevent
3. Swimming and relaxation along the water
Why add it?
The rivers and lakes are perfect for a refreshing swim, especially on hot days. After a good canoeing session, dive into the water for a moment of relaxation and pleasure. Our best swimming spots? You will find them in our dedicated article !
Advice :
- Check areas where swimming is allowed and safe.
- Consider packing a swimsuit and towel and some eco-friendly sunscreen.
- Make sure the currents aren't too strong before jumping into the water.
4. Meet history and castles
Why add it?
The Dordogne Valley is full of castles and picturesque villages to visit near our bases, it would be a shame not to take advantage of them! For those who prefer to observe the castles from afar, it is also possible during our walk of the three castles from St-Sozy to Souillac.
Advice :
- Take a break in a picturesque village like Carennac, Gluges, Martel or Collonges-la-Rouge!
- Explore a castle like Castelnaud or Montal (combined tickets) or the Tours de Merle .
- Discover the history of the place by following a TerraAventura tour or a guided tour of the tourist office .
Tip : Ask us for the Dordogne Valley destination magazine and/or the Lot tourist map.
5. a Bivouac evening to extend the adventure
Why add it?
If one day isn't enough for you, why not extend it by spending a night under the stars? Bivouac at the water's edge is an excellent way to prolong immersion in nature. We offer itinerant hikes from 2 (for beginners) to 7 days (for the most motivated!).
Advice :
- Prepare your equipment: light tent, sleeping bag, headlamp, etc.
- Respect local rules regarding wild camping (fire ban and obligation to collect waste) or choose a campsite by the river.
- Plan a simple meal to cook on a stove and observe the stars of the black triangle of Quercy.
Magical moment: Imagine waking up at sunrise, with the calm of the river as your only company
The Dordogne valley, a playground
Canoeing is a perfect activity to disconnect and enjoy nature, but by adding one or more of these activities to your stay, your experience can become even more memorable.
Whether you are looking for calm, adventure or cultural discoveries, there is always a way to enrich your outing.
So, are you ready to plan your next getaway? Consider these ideas to create unique memories whether with family or friends.
